Surname Overview
A Rare Surname
Qi (Yǐ) is a rare Chinese surname recorded in Zheng Tongzhi: Shizulüe.
Yǐ Surname
Surname profileYǐ / I
Origins
One of the Seven Shang Clans
The Qi clan was identified as one of the seven clans of the Shang people; Xingshi Kaolüe, citing Zuo Zhuan, likewise records a Qi clan among the seven clans of the Yin people.
Surname Derived from Implements
Another account derives the surname from implements: qi could denote an ancient crossbow stand, a chisel-like wood-boring tool, or a type of cauldron.
Migration and Distribution
Geographic Distribution
The Qi surname is found in Anxi, Fujian, Taiwan, and other places.
Notable People
Warring States and Ming Figures
Qi Xuan lived in the state of Han during the Warring States period, and Qi Sheng lived during the Ming dynasty.
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Surname attestation references
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